Mae Sai: Water test results from the Sai River in Mae Sai District have revealed arsenic levels above the standard, leading to advisories for villagers to avoid using local well water.
According to Thai News Agency, Asst. Prof. Dr. Surapol Voraphattrathorn, Head of the Artificial Intelligence and Startup Technology Research Center at Mae Fah Luang University, along with Dr. Suebsakul Kitnukorn, conducted tests for heavy metals, including arsenic, using an instant test kit (IQUAN). Initial results from the Sai River at the weir showed arsenic levels at 0.12 mg/L, significantly surpassing the standard value of 0.01 mg/L. A borehole well, located about 100 meters from the river, also tested positive for arsenic at levels exceeding the standard of 0.10 mg/L in two out of three tests.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Surapol highlighted that while tap water remains safe, the river and shallow wells, often used by villagers for household purposes, have concerning arsenic levels. Authorities are urged to inform villagers to refrain from using these wells. Furthermore, the public health department is encouraged to collect and test water samples from these wells, including artesian wells, to ensure safety.